Blackjack History

Playing cards are said to have originated in China , after they invented paper. Back then playing cards were said to be actual paper currency which was used as a gaming tool as well as the stakes of the game. The money cards of ancient China came in four suits: coins, string of coins (which may look like sticks to some), myriads of strings, tens of myriads. It is also possible that these designs were the basis for the modern domino and Mahjong tiles. Some say that playing cards may have originated from India as they closely resemble some early European decks that have the following symbols: ring, cup, sword, and baton (much like in tarot cards). All four symbols classically depicted in the four hands of Indian statues.

The standardized card deck first appeared in 1440 when it was first printed by Johann Guttenberg. His cards and card games became very popular with the rich and nobility of Europe . These card games often required a “hand” to have a certain card count total.

Playing cards became very popular for its “flexibility”. Unlike other gaming tools there is more than one way to play with playing cards --- from simple to complicated games --- and more variations are being “invented” everyday … kid's games like “old maid”, go fish, or “blind man's bluff” to casino games like baccarat, poker, and Blackjack.

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